November 12th, 2019 | Helly Hansen
A fine-tuned balance of LIFA® and Merino Wool, LIFA® Merino, is the best of both worlds base layer.
This 2-in-1 combination results in a high performing, thermo-regulating base layer that makes it easier to stay in the zone during high-intensity activities.
The inner side of the base layer is built with technical LIFA® that pulls moisture away from the skin while transporting perspiration to the surface of the fabric. The outer side of the base layer is made of 100% Merino Wool that wicks the moisture while generating extra warmth, even when wet. In other words: warm, dry and comfortable.
A CLASSIC IS BORN
The dual construction - launched in the late 1990s as Prowool - quickly became the preferred choice for professionals looking for performance, warmth and comfort in extreme environments. As we continued to improve the technology, it was renamed HH®Warm™ before landing on its current name — LIFA® Merino.
But what makes this combination much more effective and comfortable than a regular wool base layer? A closer look at the two ingredients helps clarify.
THE FOUNDATION – LIFA®
Since its inception in 1970, LIFA® has become a base layer icon. In fact, it is the fastest mover of moisture in the world of base layers. Helly Hansen has continuously strived to improve its invention, and just over the last 10 years alone, LIFA® has been modified over 50 times, evolving into the most effective stay-dry technology.
Professional skier Marcus Caston enjoys a climb in White Pine, Wasatch Mountains, Utah.
A CLASSIC IS BORN
LIFA® hates moisture. The hydrophobic fibre prohibits the absorption of liquid. The fibres are used on the inner layer nearest the skin, where they move moisture away from the skin to the surface of the fabric, where it evaporates. This function has made it into a complete and effective stand-alone base layer material, with LIFA® Active, LIFA® Active Light and regular LIFA® as popular choices for activities that require lighter insulation.
The evolution of LIFA® involves many elements. Softness, thread, smell, stretch, moisture management, to name a few. But, one of the key aspects that has put us at the forefront of base layers is our mastery of polypropylene, a feat that no other outdoor company has managed to replicate.
Even though the technology has developed continuously, the classic LIFA® signature has remained the same: The angled stripes along the sleeves continue to represent the benchmark of high-performance base layers for athletes.
Gold medalist skier Mollie Jepsen wearing the W Lifa Merino Midweight Graphic
ZQ certified growers, the best in animal welfare and environmental practice
WARM WHEN WET. MERINO WOOL.
The Merino is considered the oldest breed of sheep in the world. They are famous for their fine, soft wool and their ability to thrive in extreme climates, like the high country of New Zealand. Their wool has evolved to protect them against freezing winters or scorching summers. This has made Merino Wool into a natural technical fibre that is also a smart choice for humans.
Merino Wool’s thermoregulating properties make sure it warms or cools you according to the conditions. The fibres are hydrophilic and work in a way that wicks moisture away from your skin, letting the moisture evaporate and keeping you comfortable through any winter activity.
One of the most important properties of Merino Wool is its ability to stay warm when wet, for sheep and humans alike. An additional bonus for us humans is that Merino prevents stink and requires less washing.
Helly Hansen’s Merino Wool is grown by ZQ certified growers, that comply with the ZQ Grower Standard. The standards demand the best in animal welfare and environmental practice.
THE RIGHT BASE LAYER FOR EVERY PERSON
Our latest LIFA® Merino Collection has expanded to include three weights: lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight. The three different weights are all created with the unique, interconnected 2-in-1 construction of LIFA® fibers next to skin with a thin outer layer of Merino Wool. They just come in different weights. For warmer winter days, wear the lightweight base layer. For cold blizzards, don the heavyweight option.
Plus, LIFA® Merino is available in sets for kids. Because it's so soft against the skin, kids won't complain about gearing up for cold days outside.
The inside LIFA® layer repels moisture and keeps you dry — the outer layer of pure Merino Wool keeps you warm and comfortable, even when wet. LIFA® MERINO
THE CHALLENGE FROM WITHIN
As a brand, we have made professional grade gear to protect people in the harshest environments since 1877. Through insights drawn from living and working in these conditions, we know that the LIFA® Merino combination solves a challenge for everyone who spends time in the outdoors: While many people’s instinct is to protect themselves from rain and snow, it is often the moisture from within — our sweat — that can be most problematic.
LIFA® Merino base layers take care of that.
